P R ACT I CA L I N F O R M AT I O N
Size and Fitting Most rooms need a rug – a room without a rug can appear unwelcoming and unfinished. A well chosen rug will transform a space, introducing softness and a sense of luxury, particularly if it is of good quality and a high standard of craftsmanship. Do not be afraid of colour or pattern; choose a rug as you would a piece of art. Most of all, you must love it as a well-made rug will last a lifetime and can be moved to any room or even to a different home.
Before choosing a rug, you must first understand its purpose. A statement piece will add personality and define the space; a more neutral design will blend seamlessly into the space for a unified tranquil look. If you are attempting to break up a room into different areas, a number of smaller rugs can do so beautifully. A rug can anchor and define a space so it is important to choose the size carefully. While there are no rules for how to place a rug, there is usually a size that feels just right and balanced in the space.
Living Room A
Living Room B
Living Room As a general rule a seating area needs a rug to make it feel complete. In a large open-plan space rugs can be used to define different areas and create rooms within rooms. Avoid choosing a rug that is too small as this can look lost. It is much better to specify a generous size that flows under and unifies the furniture (Living room A). In this case, leave sufficient extra space around all the furniture so it does not appear ‘perched’ on the edge of the rug. Alternatively, placing the rug about half way under sofas and chairs can look just right (Living room B).
Living Room C
Some styles of furniture work best when left off the rug (Living room C), and smaller pieces of furniture such as side-tables are generally best either on or off the rug and not half-half. In this case, the rug should be slightly longer and wider than the furniture, and not too far from the seating. 278
